Why is the Central Valley of California considered a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area?The ONDCP Reauthorization Act of 2006 established criteria for determination of HIDTA designation. The region meets the statutory criteria in several ways: significant quantities of methamphetamine, illegal marijuana, and other dangerous drugs are produced in the area and distributed locally and across the country. California in general, and to a great extent the Central Valley, is considered the marijuana “source country” for the rest of the United States. The area is a significant destination and transit area for drugs smuggled into the U.S., such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and controlled prescription drugs. The drug related activities cause harm to the communities in many ways, including increased violence, social ills caused by drug dependency, and environmental damage.

How does the CVC HIDTA approach the problem?Drug law enforcement and demand reduction work best when the efforts of multiple organizations are coordinated, well-resourced, and work collectively toward mutual goals defined by a common strategy. The HIDTA program provides funding and resources to make this happen. Within the CVC HIDTA, agency leaders work together to assess threats, develop strategies to address those threats, and execute the strategies through multi-agency task forces, intelligence sharing centers, drug abuse education, law enforcement training, and other initiatives. At its core, the CVC HIDTA is a partnership that combines and leverages the personnel, resources, authorities and expertise of multiple agencies to efficiently combat the drug trafficking threat.

Where do HIDTA funds come from?HIDTA funds are appropriated by Congress as part of the federal budget.

How much does the CVC HIDTA cost? Is it a good investment?In 2016, the CVC HIDTA received approximately $3.95 million in appropriated funds. During that year, CVC HIDTA initiatives seized proceeds of illegal drug trafficking worth nearly $8 million. That alone is a Return on Investment (ROI - the number of dollars returned for every dollar spent) of over $2. During the same period, CVC HIDTA initiatives removed illegal drugs with a wholesale value exceeding $6.7 billion. When considered together, that’s an ROI of $1,711! Either way you look at it; yes, the CVC HIDTA is a good investment.

What agencies participate in the CVC HIDTA?Click here to view our partners.

What area is covered by the CVC HIDTA?Click here to view a map of the CVC HIDTA.